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Creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on a classic Caesar salad, combining the heartiness of pasta with the savory flavors of Caesar dressing and grilled chicken. This dish stands out not only for its rich taste but also for its satisfying texture. The creamy dressing clings to the pasta and fresh ingredients, creating a deliciously indulgent yet refreshing experience.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Discover a delightful twist on a classic with this creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad recipe. This dish combines hearty penne pasta, savory grilled chicken, fresh romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a rich Caesar dressing for a satisfying meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a crowd-pleasing side at gatherings, it's versatile and easy to customize. Enjoy the creamy texture and vibrant flavors that make this salad a go-to option for any occasion!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) penne pasta

1 lb (450g) grilled chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup crispy bacon bits

1/4 cup Caesar dressing (can use store-bought or homemade)

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

1/4 tsp sea salt

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (typically about 8-10 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, drizzle the grilled chicken breast pieces with olive oil, then sprinkle over the garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss to ensure the chicken is evenly seasoned.

      Combine the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta, seasoned diced chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and crispy bacon bits. Use a gentle tossing motion to mix all the ingredients without breaking the pasta.

        Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the pasta mixture. Carefully toss everything together, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

          Chill for Flavor: For optimum flavor development, cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken Caesar pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors to meld beautifully.

            Serve and Garnish: Just before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to mix any settled ingredients. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese and a handful of finely chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. Serve chilled and enjoy!

              Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 50 mins | Servings: 4-6

                Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients, and consider adding a few extra bacon bits and parsley on top for an appealing finish.